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56: Is a Doodle Mix Right for You? Answering Listener Questions on Choosing the Perfect Pup

• The Doodle Pro®, Corinne Gearhart • Season 4 • Episode 56

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Welcome back to The Doodle Pro® Podcast, where we celebrate all things Doodle! In today’s episode, I’m diving into a thoughtful question from listener Matthew K. in Salem, Oregon. He’s considering adopting a 14-month-old Husky Doodle from a rescue and wants advice on what to expect from this unique mix.

This isn’t just about one pup—this is your ultimate guide to evaluating whether a Doodle mix is right for you. Whether you're eyeing a Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, or any other Doodle hybrid, this episode will teach you how to evaluate if a specific Doodle blend fits your lifestyle:

✨ Know the Breeds: Understand how a Husky's independence and energy balance with a Poodle’s intelligence and sensitivity.
✨ Coat Challenges: Learn about the unique grooming needs of Doodle mixes, especially high-maintenance combinations like the Husky Doodle.
✨ Adolescent Adventures: Dive into why adolescent dogs are often surrendered and how to navigate this high-energy, boundary-testing phase.
✨ Lifestyle Fit: Get tips on determining if you’re ready for the time, energy, and care required to parent a specific Doodle mix.

If you’re considering adding a Doodle to your family, this episode will give you the tools to make an informed decision—and help set you and your pup up for success!

🎧 Related Episode: If today’s episode piques your interest, don’t miss Episode 15: "Doodle Brain Under Construction: Adolescent Dog Training"! Discover expert tips and strategies for managing the unique challenges of raising an adolescent Doodle. Listen now at thedoodlepro.com/ep-15-doodle-brain-under-construction-adolescent-dog-training.

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Thank you for listening, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast wherever you tune in. Here’s to raising happy, healthy, and well-behaved Doodles! 🐾

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Transcript: Is a Doodle Mix Right for You? Answering Listener Questions on Choosing the Perfect Pup

Welcome to The Doodle Pro® Podcast

Hi everyone, and welcome back to The Doodle Pro® Podcast, where we talk all things Doodles. Today, we're answering a question from listener Matthew K. in Salem, Oregon.

Matthew is considering adopting a 14-month-old Husky Doodle from a rescue. Thank you, Matthew, for your thoughtful question! This is a fantastic opportunity to dive into how to research Doodle mixes and what to consider before bringing one into your home.

Why Are Doodles So Popular Yet Challenging?

Doodle breed dogs are easy to love but can be challenging to parent. As the Doodle Pro®, I’ve professionally worked with more Doodle breeds than anyone else. My goal is to help you have a fulfilling and rewarding experience with your Doodle.

I love sharing my expertise in a fun, compassionate, and nonjudgmental way. Through my years of work, education, and network of skilled professionals, I provide Doodle-specific advice for training, grooming, and veterinary care.

Listener Question: Considering a Husky Doodle

Matthew K. from Salem, Oregon, asked:
 "Hi Corinne. I’m thinking of adopting a 14-month-old Husky Doodle from a rescue. Any thoughts or tips on this particular mix?"

When adopting a mixed breed like a Husky Doodle, it’s essential to understand the traits of both parent breeds. Each Doodle mix brings unique personality traits, energy levels, and grooming needs.

Husky Traits: What to Expect

Huskies are a working breed known for:

  • High Energy Levels: They require substantial physical and mental exercise.
  • Independent Spirit: Huskies can be stubborn, making training more challenging.
  • Escape Artist Tendencies: They’re notorious for finding ways to escape yards, no matter how secure.
  • Social Nature: Huskies are friendly but not always ideal for first-time pet parents.

Poodle Traits: What They Add to the Mix

Poodles bring their own characteristics:

  • High Intelligence: They’re one of the smartest breeds, making them trainable.
  • Sensitivity: Poodles are emotionally attuned to their environment.
  • Energy Levels: Standard Poodles are high-energy but channel it well with proper training.
  • Grooming Needs: Their curly, non-shedding coat requires regular care, which can be labor-intensive.

The Unique Husky Doodle Mix

When these two breeds combine, you get a fascinating mix of traits. However, genetics are unpredictable, and a Husky Doodle might lean more heavily toward one parent.

  • Temperament: Expect intelligence paired with independence. Consistent training is key.
  • Energy Levels: Both breeds are high-energy, so daily exercise and activities are a must.
  • Coat Challenges: This mix can inherit the dense, double-layered coat of a Husky and the curly coat of a Poodle, creating a high-maintenance grooming challenge.

Why Adolescent Dogs Are Often Surrendered

The age of this Husky Doodle, 14 months, is significant. Adolescence is a challenging phase when dogs test boundaries and their energy levels peak. This stage often overwhelms pet parents, leading to surrenders.

Matthew, you’ll need patience and persistence to help your Husky Doodle thrive during this phase. Proper exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training are essential to prevent behavior issues.

🎧 For more tips on adolescent dogs, check out Episode 15: Doodle Brain Under Construction: Adolescent Dog Training.

Grooming Needs of a Husky Doodle

Managing a Husky Doodle’s coat requires:

  • Daily Brushing: To prevent matting and manage shedding.
  • Professional Grooming: Scheduled every 4–6 weeks.
  • Understanding Costs: Grooming this mix can be pricey, so budget accordingly.

Preparing for Life with a Husky Doodle

If you’re ready to adopt, here are my top tips:

  1. Secure Your Space: Ensure your yard is escape-proof.
  2. Focus on Training: Enroll in positive reinforcement classes.
  3. Daily Stimulation: Provide at least 90 minutes of physical and mental activity.
  4. Build Grooming Relationships: Work with a groomer experienced in both Huskies and Poodles.
  5. Evaluate Your Lifestyle: Ensure you have the time and energy to meet the needs of a high-maintenance, high-energy dog.

Final Thoughts

Matthew, I’m thrilled you’re considering a rescue and taking the time to research this mix. A Husky Doodle can be an incredible companion if you’re prepared for their unique traits and needs.

For all my listeners, whether you’re considering a Husky Doodle or another mix, always research both parent breeds to ensure they align with your lifestyle.

Remember, Doodles are different—wonderfully so!

Stay Connected

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Doodle Pro® Podcast. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show wherever you listen. Have a pawsome day! 🐾

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The Doodle Pro®, Corinne Gearhart

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